I’ve touched on this subject before, but I thought maybe a refresher was in order. Keeping a sketchbook around for jotting down ideas, pasting in notes or otherwise affixing your thoughts into a hardbound repository is an excellent habit to get into. It helps you organize your concepts, works out the visual cues and lets…

Every once is awhile, you need to take a little inventory of the old portfolio. Usually, it happens whenever you get ‘forced’ to do it with an upcoming client meeting or an interview. You find the trusty book in your office or studio and gently blow the dust off of it and thumb through the…

Last week, a rather spirited discussion arose after there was an announcement by Chris Brogan saying that he was looking into launching a design contest on 99designs. Well, needless to say, a handful of designers were quick to react and try and educate Mr. Brogan about their surprise and disapproval of such an idea. After…

With the recent launch of the much anticipated iPad, there has been a virtual firestorm of commentary, critique and speculation on the potential impact this device will have on our culture. Some are embracing the new technology and can’t wait to get one and others are ‘not drinking from that Kool-Aid’ and snuffing it as…

I’ve been working in this business a long time and have seen my share of successful entrepreneurs and thriving companies. Every once in awhile, I come across a potential client with a business that just doesn’t add up. They could be wildly successful with lots of business coming in the door and plenty of people…

Recently, I’ve heard the question, does a graphic designer need to have an understanding of marketing? Well, quite simply – yes. If you don’t have an understanding of how to market, whether it’s a packaging design, a promotional message or a website, you can’t adequately direct someone to take action – or even care, from interacting…